Laertes Ancient City:

Alanya's Mountain Fortress with Mediterranean Views

Discover Laertes: The Spectacular Mountain Citadel Above Alanya

Perched majestically at 850 meters above sea level on the slopes of Cebeli Reis Mountain, Laertes Ancient City offers one of Turkey's most spectacular archaeological experiences. Located just 25 kilometers from Alanya, this remarkable ancient settlement provides visitors with breathtaking panoramic views across the Mediterranean Sea while exploring 2,000 years of fascinating history spanning Roman and Byzantine periods.

Laertes was strategically built on what ancient geographer Strabo described as a "chest-shaped hill with a harbor," demonstrating the sophisticated urban planning that made this mountain fortress both defensible and commercially viable. The site's elevated position offers visitors the unique experience of exploring ancient ruins while enjoying some of the most stunning coastal views in the entire Mediterranean region.

Unlike many coastal ancient cities, Laertes represents a rare example of an inland settlement that maintained maritime connections, making it a crucial link between mountain communities and Mediterranean trade networks throughout antiquity.

From Pirates' Haven to Roman Administrative Center

Ancient Origins and Strategic Importance

Archaeological evidence reveals that Laertes existed as early as 625 BCE, with a Phoenician inscription from this period discovered at the site and now displayed in Alanya Archaeological Museum. This ancient tablet provides fascinating insights into early governance, describing how a provincial governor granted land to his servant, while another Phoenician inscription praises the area's excellent wine production.

The city's early history was dramatically shaped by its control under Cilician pirates until 67 BCE, when Roman forces finally established order in the region. The pirate period explains why no Hellenistic buildings survive at Laertes, as they were completely replaced by Roman and Byzantine structures during subsequent reconstruction efforts.

Roman Golden Age and Urban Development

Laertes experienced its golden age during the 1st and 2nd centuries CE, when the city was relatively densely populated and served as an important administrative center within the Roman provincial system. Coins were minted here under Emperor Trajan (98-117 CE), demonstrating the city's economic significance and administrative autonomy within the empire.

The Roman period brought remarkable urban development, with the construction of typical Roman civic amenities including forums, public baths, theaters, and elaborate temple complexes. Archaeological discoveries include a military diploma belonging to a Syrian soldier who retired to Laertes after 25 years of service, receiving Roman citizenship and the right to marry a Pamphylian woman, illustrating how the city served as a retirement destination for veterans from across the empire.

Architectural Marvels and Sacred Spaces

Temples and Religious Architecture

The ancient city features impressive religious architecture centered around temples dedicated to the most important deities of the Roman period. The Apollo Temple stands prominently on a hilltop west of the odeon, while a Zeus Temple, though in deteriorated condition, demonstrates the city's dedication to major Olympian deities. These temples, along with the imperial cult center, formed the spiritual heart of Roman Laertes.

A Caesar Temple was constructed by Emperor Claudius (41-54 CE), making Laertes one of the first cities in Cilicia where the Roman emperor was worshipped alongside traditional gods, reflecting the successful integration of local religious practices with imperial ideology.

Civic Buildings and Urban Planning

The city's civic center includes a substantial basilica, an odeon (covered theater) for meetings and concerts, public baths, and an agora with semicircular seating areas called exedrae where citizens could gather for discussion and relaxation. The urban layout demonstrates sophisticated Roman city planning adapted to the challenging mountain terrain.

The necropolis area south of the main city contains numerous ostotek (cremation containers) and their supporting pedestals, providing insights into Roman burial practices and social stratification within the community.

Archaeological Discoveries and Historical Insights

Military and Administrative Evidence

Archaeological excavations have revealed fascinating details about daily life in ancient Laertes. Inscriptions found at the site reference various individuals, including Syrian veteran Galba and Aurelius Neon Hierax, demonstrating the city's multicultural population. One particularly significant discovery mentions Polemos Nou, an Olympic champion who was fostered by the city, highlighting Laertes' cultural sophistication and athletic traditions.

The administrative importance of Laertes is evident in the numerous Greek inscriptions dating from the 1st to 3rd centuries CE, which provide valuable information about local governance, commercial activities, and social relationships within this Roman provincial community.

Economic Prosperity and Trade

Laertes was particularly famous for its olive and wine production, taking advantage of the favorable Mediterranean climate and fertile mountain slopes. The city's strategic location enabled it to serve as a crucial link between inland agricultural production and coastal maritime trade networks.

Archaeological evidence including imported pottery, coins, and luxury goods demonstrates extensive commercial connections throughout the Mediterranean world, proving that this mountain citadel was far from isolated despite its elevated location.

Planning Your Visit to Laertes Ancient City

Getting There and Practical Information

Laertes is accessible from Alanya by following the coastal road east past Mahmutlar toward Gözüküçüklü Village. Visitors can drive to a parking area near the site, though the final approach requires careful navigation along stone roads, with walking paths leading to the northwestern section of the ruins.

The mountainous terrain is steep and uneven, so visitors should wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring sun protection and water. The elevation provides cooler temperatures than coastal areas, making it particularly pleasant during hot summer months.

What to Experience

The site offers multiple layers of historical experience, from exploring temple foundations and civic buildings to enjoying panoramic Mediterranean views that ancient inhabitants would have known. The combination of archaeological significance and natural beauty makes Laertes ideal for both history enthusiasts and photography lovers.

Visitors can trace the ancient street patterns, examine architectural details of public buildings, and contemplate the remarkable achievement of creating a thriving urban center in such a challenging mountain environment.

Ready to explore Turkey's most spectacular mountain ancient city? Plan your Alanya archaeological adventure and discover why Laertes offers an unforgettable combination of Roman history and Mediterranean views that makes it one of the region's most rewarding historical destinations.